Since gaining prominence, she has consistently used her platform to elevate social causes and celebrate her South Asian heritage. In January 2026 she made headlines when Toronto‑based hair‑care brand Fable & Mane named her the face of its 2026 global campaign. The campaign, filmed entirely in India, tells the story of the brand’s HoliRoots Hair Oil and connects Ayurvedic traditions to modern beauty rituals. Ramakrishnan’s involvement exemplifies how she blends entertainment with advocacy and cultural representation.
Ramakrishnan burst onto the global scene as Devi Vishwakumar in Never Have I Ever, a role that earned her a spot on Time’s TIME100 Next list in 2021 and recognition as one of the New York Times’ best actors of 2020. Yet even as her acting career flourished, she remained grounded in her cultural roots. Growing up in a Tamil family in Mississauga, Ontario, she cherished weekly hair‑oiling rituals passed down through generations. In the Fable & Mane campaign announcement she noted that her great‑grandmother, grandmother and mother cared for her hair using herbs and homemade oils. By narrating and featuring in a campaign filmed in India, she connects her personal story to a broader conversation about the importance of cultural traditions in self‑care.
Beyond acting, Ramakrishnan is an outspoken advocate for public education and gender rights. She serves as a global ambassador for Plan International Canada, a role in which she raises awareness about girls’ rights and access to education. In a December 2025 interview she explained that she views her Twitch livestreams as both “a personal refuge and a platform for change”. Her Gaming for Good event brought together youth leaders from around the world to support Plan International Canada’s Gifts of Hope while cultivating a positive, hate‑free online space. During the interview she reflected on a trip to Tanzania with Plan International that deepened her commitment to activism, emphasizing that success in entertainment means little if it isn’t used “to do the right thing”.
Ramakrishnan’s advocacy also extends to gender equality and inclusion. She actively promotes gender rights and speaks against discrimination. By centring girls’ education in her activism and partnering with organizations like Plan International, she amplifies voices that are often marginalized. Her commitment to inclusion complements her work as an actor, demonstrating that representation is meaningful both onscreen and in real‑world activism.
Ramakrishnan’s accomplishments have earned her a place on Forbes 30 Under 30 (2024), affirming her influence beyond the entertainment industry. Akash Mehta, CEO and co‑founder of Fable & Mane, described her as embodying the brand’s spirit and purpose. He noted that an organic friendship evolved into a collaboration that brings her passion for cultural storytelling to a global audience. The campaign underscores not only her marketability but also her ability to lead conversations about mindful beauty and the value of rituals.
In addition to professional accolades, Ramakrishnan has been recognized for her commitment to social causes. She often speaks at events promoting equity in education and has been commended for championing public education and inclusion. Her blend of cultural pride, activism and creative talent positions her as a role model for young people seeking to effect positive change.
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s journey from a suburban Canadian teenager to an internationally recognized actor and activist showcases the power of authenticity. By embracing her heritage and leveraging her platform for social good, she embodies the modern definition of a remarkable woman. Whether she is leading a hair‑oil ritual in a Fable & Mane campaign, hosting a livestream for girls’ rights or promoting inclusive education, Ramakrishnan demonstrates that success in entertainment can be harmoniously paired with purpose. Her dedication to advocacy ensures that her influence extends far beyond the screen, inspiring a new generation to celebrate their roots and speak up for equality.
© Photo: iHeartRadioCA - CC BY 3.0